Observation Point, Weeping Rock Trailhead, Zion National Park, Utah
Observation Point - 7.4 miles
Weeping Rock Trailhead
| Round-Trip Length: | 7.4 miles |
| Start-End Elevation: | 4,360' - 6,508' |
| Elevation Change: | +2,148' net elevation gain |
| Skill Level: | Moderate |
| Dogs Allowed: | No |
| Bikes Allowed: | No |
| Horses Allowed: | No |
| Related Trails: |
Observation Point - 7.4 Miles Round-Trip
Observation Point is located 3.7 miles from Weeping Rock Trailhead in Zion National Park. This strenuous trail leads through a sculpted landscape to a forested mesa on Baldy Mountain with spectacular views over Zion Canyon and the Virgin River.
Though much of the trail runs on rough pour (a surface that resists erosion and assists travel), steep grades, sun exposure and drop-offs can still prove challenging.
The trail climbs steadily over Weeping Rock to the Hidden Canyon Trail split (.6 miles); keep left for Observation Point. Later in the hike you'll see a good portion of Hidden Canyon's long switchbacks - a gratifying sight knowing you've climbed much higher.
The trail briefly levels through a short section of Echo Canyon (1.2 miles), a shaded slot with seasonal water. It continues over sparingly marked slickrock (1.5 miles) to the East Rim Trail split (1.7 miles : 5,605').
Bear left and resume steady, steep climbing for 1.5 miles in a labyrinth of promontories, buttes, canyons, and slickrock benches.
Travel eases up to the East Mesa Trail split (3.2 miles : 6,475'), which runs 3.1 miles over high tablelands to the Park's east boundary. The next .25 miles level out over an uneven red dirt path just beneath the mesa rim. Be mindful of steep drop-offs, especially after rain.
The final .25 miles run atop the Observation Point mesa to a small, south-facing ledge with spectacular views down Zion Canyon that include The Virgin River, Angels Landing, The Organ, Cathedral Mountain, Cable Mountain and Castle Dome.
Interactive GPS Topo Map
Key GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84
- N37 16.255 W112 56.308 — Weeping Rock Trailhead
- N37 16.135 W112 56.197 — Observation Point - Hidden Canyon Trail split
- N37 16.349 W112 55.934 — Exit Echo Canyon
- N37 16.457 W112 55.700 — East Rim Trail junction
- N37 16.862 W112 56.195 — East Mesa Trail junction
- N37 16.695 W112 56.425 — Observation Point
Worth Noting
- Steep sections may be slick and potentially unsafe when wet or icy. Contact the ranger station when conditions are questionable.
- Getting an early start to avoid crowds, summer heat and afternoon thunderstorms.
- Angels Landing - perhaps the most prominent feature in Zion Canyon (5,990') - sits 518' below Observation Point.
Camping and Backpacking Information
Permits are required for all overnight backpacking trips in Zion National Park. Permits are available at both Visitor Centers the day of or day before your trip. Permits are limited.
- $15: 1-2 people
- $20: 3-7 people
- $25: 8-12 people
Permits may also be reserved up to 3 months in advance through the online reservation system. A $5 non-refundable fee + an additional fee determined by the size of your group is required when using the online reservation system. Click here to reserve.
- Camp only in designated sites.
- Fires are not permitted at backcountry campsites or within the backcountry in Zion National Park.
- Desert water sources are scarce and fragile. Do not bathe or wash dishes in creeks or pools.
Rules and Regulations
- There's a $30 fee per vehicle to enter Zion National Park (defined as private passenger cars with 15 people or less). Passes are good for 7 consecutive days.
- $25 per motorcycle.
- $15 per person (walk or bike).
- Dogs are not permitted on trails in Zion National Park.
Directions to Trailhead
Take the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Weeping Rock Trailhead.
Contact Information
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
435.772.3256
Open: Daily
Closed: December 25
Spring: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Summer: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fall: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Winter: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. )
Backcountry Info, Camping & Permits Desk (including camping in the Narrows)
435.772.0170
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